Non-Direct Care Nurses: Professional Identity and Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: During times of need, hospital-based nurses in nonclinical jobs support organizations through a variety of roles. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore the experience of hospital-based nurses who did not provide direct patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on role and professional identity. METHODS: Seventeen nurses participated in individual semistructured interviews. RESULTS: Participants filled a variety of pandemic-related roles as an extension of their job. Others were placed in roles that were different but perceived as professionally beneficial. Many did not question their professional identity as a "nurse," yet for a few, it was before they received a pandemic-related assignment. All appreciated having role choice and their skills recognized. CONCLUSION: Nurses in nonclinical roles desire to be involved in responses to emergency events, but not as direct care providers. Involvement enables them to feel valuable despite nonclinical roles. During emergency events, nursing leaders should mobilize the talents of this workforce segment, offering role choice when feasible.